
A mandatory minimum sentence is a legally prescribed minimum amount of time that a person must serve after being convicted of a specific crime. These laws ensure that certain offenses receive consistent and severe punishment, regardless of the individual case’s circumstances. Judges have limited discretion in sentencing, as they must impose at least the minimum sentence specified by statutes. Purpose of Mandatory Minimum Sentences The primary goal of mandatory minimum sentencing laws is to create uniformity in sentencing and to deter serious criminal behavior. By setting fixed… Read More